Cosmetic medicine
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, sun spots, and vascular flushing—diagnosis-first blending of topicals and light devices.
Uneven tone can mix brown pigment (melanin) and red oxygenated hemoglobin in superficial vessels. Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation after acne or procedures is especially common in darker skin tones—gentle, sequential care reduces flare risk.
Correct diagnosis avoids treating benign lesions that need biopsy.
UV exposure, hormones (pregnancy, OCP), friction, heat, and inflammation all skew pigment production.
Tyrosinase-inhibiting topicals, superficial peels, IPL for discrete spots, and pigment-specific lasers when indicated. Rosacea-type redness may need anti-inflammatory prescriptions before aggressive laser.
Evening of tone is gradual—expect 8–12 weeks for many topical programs, longer for deeper pigment.
Lower-energy devices, test spots, strict SPF, and pre-treatment regimens reduce PIH risk—experienced providers are essential.
Cyclical use under medical supervision is typical; prolonged unsupervised use can cause ochronosis—follow clinician guidance.
Only if a medical cause of pigmentation is suspected—most cosmetic uneven tone is managed topically and procedurally after history.